78 courses with the subject SUS, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
Through the lens of the natural and cultural history of Eden Hall and its surroundings, students learn about cultural, social, economic, natural and other systems. The course will focus on land use over time, the economic and social drivers and impacts of those land uses, and the implications for environmental wellbeing.
Students examine core concepts of sustainability, and explore its origins, history, and achievements across the globe at multiple scales. Students gain a foundation for more in-depth study of sustainability. Students also focus on their personal conception of sustainability and engage in a sustainability group project linked to community partners.
This course will introduce traditional biological concepts from molecules to organisms within an integrative and applied framework. Students will learn the interdisciplinary nature and common approaches of biology through applied topics relevant to sustainability such as human and ecological health, freshwater and marine fisheries, energy sources, and climate dynamics.
Laboratory exercises including data collection, small-scale experimentation, data modeling, and simulation will be experienced to complement the material covered in SUS201. Two hours of laboratory will be held per week at the Eden Hall Campus aquatic science lab. Additional Fee(s): Lab/Materials fee
This course examines human health and ecological disruption through the lens of planetary health. Topics include the interconnected systems of climate, epidemiology, toxicology, radiation, water, air, and soil pollution. Communication strategies for issues, consequences, and solutions in writing intensive experiences provide opportunities to share knowledge with a variety of audiences.
This course discusses opportunities and challenges for using technology for sustainability. We will discuss innovation for sustainability and societal adoption, and will explore ways to use renewable energy and other technologies for homes and workplaces, the internet of Things, closed loops and new materials, sustainable transportation, and smart water systems.
This course focuses on social justice and sustainability. We examine environmental risks and benefits as they are unequally distributed in society. We look especially at environmental problems in relation to social constructs such as gender, race, ethnicity, and class. We will also focus on solutions and responses to these problems.
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 140
*Bold courses count as General Education credits
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 198
This course explores the relationship of energy production and consumption with sustainability. Non-renewable and renewable energy resources and their environmental and social impacts will be discussed. We will explore the Eden Hall energy systems and investigate in more detail how solar energy could be used on a larger scale.
This course promotes professional skills development for careers in the field of sustainability including career exploration, networking, job searching, application materials, and interviewing skills. Other topics include practical skills for presentations and small project recognition and development.
A Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software is a powerful tool used in a variety of disciplines. Students will gain a foundation of GIS principles and applications using ArcGIS software. Topics covered include data development and management, spatial analysis techniques, communicating data visually and examples of hands-on GIS applications. Additional Fee(s): Course fee. CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 447
BS in Sustainability: Sustainable Energy and Urban Systems
An interdisciplinary approach to economics including concepts from sociology, politics, behavioral and evolutionary economics. It explores the limits of conventional economics in explaining and predicting economic phenomena. It situates economics as a behavioral science and looks at economic sustainability at the local, to global scale, incorporating social and political issues.
This course examines contrasting rationales supporting environmental values and human interests that compete against those values; the enactment and mechanics of regulations and statutes; environmental economics and politics. The socio-economic, legal and political implications will be scrutinized through case studies of local and/ or global environmental and ecological concern.
This course addresses water policy, management, and sustainability. We will consider water resources with specific attention to the challenges that come with managing a resource that crosses a range of boundaries and scales. Topics include U.S. water policy, water privatization, water resources in the global south, infrastructure and climate change.
This course addresses topical environmental challenges (e.g.. water) and develops sustainable, leadership-based skills for managing these challenges. Students will learn about the social, ecological, and economic aspects of the topic, and then apply their knowledge to field experiences. Field experiences include service projects, fieldwork, or training. Additional Fee(s): Course fee
This course introduces sustainability data science through frameworks like the UN SDGs and Doughnut Economics. Students then gain foundational analytical skills using tools such as Footprinting, Excel Pivot Tables, Tableau, and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Working with Chatham community partners, students apply data- driven methods to real sustainability challenges in professional settings.
This course examines the historical development and cultural importance of aquaculture, as well as practical considerations for managing modern aquaculture systems. Emphasis is on low-impact aquaculture systems and approaches, which minimize adverse environmental impacts, and encourage socially responsible development that enhances both the natural resource base and community livelihoods. Additional Fee(s): Course fee CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 448
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 204
Students will develop skills for managing innovation to positively impact the environment and society. Students work with actual ideas and/or entrepreneurs using Eden Hall to test products. The class focuses on helping students to develop product management skills which use innovation to solve major social and environmental problems.
BA in Sustainability: Sustainable Business Concentration
*Bold courses count as General Education credits
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies: Policy Studies Concentation Students interested in pursuing an interdisciplinary studies major with a concentration in policy studies should see page 79.
The integrative capstone, undertaken by the student during the senior year, is an extended project that helps the student complete their transition from an undergraduate student to a world-ready professional. The study usually centers on the student’s major and may be conducted, at least in part, in the context of a group experience. Such programs are crafted to meet the unique needs of each major, and could include, for example, fieldwork, theater production, creative work in the arts, independent research, or independent readings. The integrative capstone in an interdisciplinary major must have the approval of both academic programs.
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 449
This course provides grounding in essential texts in sustainability. Readings vary and are selected by Falk School faculty. This course meets on a bi-weekly basis to discuss analyze and discuss these readings. Students will contribute to forums and blog discussions throughout the semester
In this course, students will develop skills necessary to understand, describe, and communicate complex systems. Working from examples, exercise and interactive discussions, students will learn to identify key drivers and leverage points for change. Students will learn to solicit useful information, model, and enact change using a various systems-based tools.
This course provides students the skills to understand, communicate, and critique the fundamentals of sustainability at multiple scales and across disciplines and cultures. It explores sustainability’s origins and foundations, application, and assessment. We evaluate the inter-relationships among environmental, societal, and economic well- being and the implications on individual and social decision-making.
This course addresses water policy, management, and sustainability. We will consider water resources with specific attention to the challenges that come with managing a resource that crosses a range of boundaries and scales. Topics include U.S. water policy, water privatization, water resources in the global south, infrastructure and climate change.
This course addresses topical environmental challenges (e.g.. water) and develops sustainable, leadership-based skills for managing these challenges. Students will learn about the social, ecological, and economic aspects of the topic, and then apply their knowledge to field experiences. Field experiences include service projects, fieldwork, or training. Additional Fee(s): Course fee
Students in this course will become proficient in executing quantitative methods pertinent sustainability science, including multiple linear regression, descriptive multivariate statistics, and time series analyses. All assignments aim to generate experience with applied problem-solving and will require scriptwriting in program R to maximize analytical and data management efficiency. This course requires a foundation in statistical methods.
Overcoming sustainability challenges requires influencing human behavior. In this course, we explore ways in which policy can shape behavior and draw insights from fields like political science, psychology, economics, the philosophy of justice, and science and technology studies to enhance our ability to understand, cultivate, and realize sustainability goals.
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 450
Pittsburgh and the surrounding region have experienced several waves of change; the current described as a “green renaissance.” Students will engage in seven weekly workshops and guest lectures with introducing them to the city’s history, key sustainability initiatives and job prospects. Students will provide seven weekly blogs, one for each visit.
Pittsburgh and the surrounding region have experienced several waves of change; the current described as a “green renaissance”. Students will engage in 10 weekly field trips with participant observation giving a glimpse of the socio-ecological history of the city. Students will provide 10 blogs, one for each visit, and a final paper.
Pittsburgh and the surrounding region have experienced several waves of change; the current described as a “green renaissance”. Students will engage in 14 weekly field trips with participant observation giving a glimpse of the socio-ecological history of the city. Students will provide a 14 blogs one or each visit, and a final paper.
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 213
Today’s cities can thrive by becoming more sustainable, walkable, climate-resilient and restoring urban ecosystems. Cities also face a shrinking middle class and communities that are disproportionally affected by urban decline. Using systems theory and the example of Pittsburgh, we explore comprehensive approaches to equitable, resilient, and sustainable neighborhood revitalization.
The overall goal of this course is to examine the role that ecological science contributes to sustainability. Students will critically assess, process evidence, and enhance communication skills for scientific methods. All topics and applications considered will be centered on issues of sustainability in the ecological sciences, such as climate change, water pollution, land use change, and the loss of biodiversity.
This course introduces sustainability data science through frameworks like the UN SDGs and Doughnut Economics. Students then gain foundational analytical skills using tools such as Footprinting, Excel Pivot Tables, Tableau, and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Working with Chatham community partners, students apply data- driven methods to real sustainability challenges in professional settings.
Climate change is one of today’s most critical issues. We will study the science of climate change impacts and examine frameworks used by the global community to develop climate projections, build resiliency, and mitigate emissions. Through team projects we investigate topics in climate resiliency or emissions reduction in more depth. CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 451
This class examines community energy systems using the examples of Eden Hall, national and international case studies, and a class project. Technical applications include estimating energy production, heating and cooling, and building energy efficiency. We discuss energy access and energy justice, relevant state policy, and organizing and financing community energy.
Course offers an overview of environmental communications providing an analysis of how individuals, institutions and corporations describe and portray our interactions with the environment. Discussion topics include environmental discourse, environmental conflicts, risk communication, environmental disasters, environmental social movements, and the nature-society relationship.
This course examines the historical development and cultural importance of aquaculture, as well as practical considerations for managing modern aquaculture systems. Emphasis will lie on low impact aquaculture systems and approaches, which minimize adverse environmental impacts, and encourage socially responsible development that enhances both the natural resource base and community livelihoods. Additional Fee(s): Course fee
Communications and Writing Concentration
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 207
Students work with a professor/instructor to develop and follow a curriculum which covers a topic of special interest.
Students work with a professor/instructor to develop and follow a curriculum which covers a topic of special interest.
Students work with a professor/instructor to develop and follow a curriculum which covers a topic of special interest. CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 452
The overall goal of this course is to examine the role that ecological science contributes to sustainability. Students will critically assess, process evidence, and enhance communication skills for scientific methods. All topics and applications considered will be centered on issues of sustainability in the ecological sciences, such as climate change, water pollution, land use change, and the loss of biodiversity. Additional Fee(s): Course fee
This course focuses on the role of the “social” as one of the three pillars of sustainability. It explores historic and contemporary notions of ethics, social equity and social justice. It examines how these concepts can be applied to sustainability by studying local and global case studies.
Using land sustainably is a key component of many of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In this course, students will learn the history of land use planning, how professionals measure and make claims about sustainable land use practices, and how land use policy and law are created and implemented.
This class builds a foundation for sustainability management through the exploration of various methodologies for sustainable innovation and transitions. Students study innovation management, learn how to analyze systemic socio-technological problems, learn to develop potential solutions, and understand the organizational and societal structures necessary to support long-term change.
This course explores urban processes through the field of planning and a critical look at human/environment relationships in cities. Students will advance their knowledge of cities and how they function through in depth readings of governance, urban ecology, urban political ecology, food, infrastructure, policy, and inequality in metropolitan areas.
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 215
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027
The water’s edge is rich with ecological and cultural activity. Through online discussions, field excursions, public service, participation in research, interactions with practitioners, and a curated exhibit, this course bridges theory with application for the science and policy relevant to the aquatic-terrestrial interface (e.g., streams, rivers, lakes, and coastal shorelines). CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 453
This class introduces students to evidence-based research in sustainability guiding them through the challenges. Topics include the role and limits of research, the skill of connecting with your readership, developing well-defined and appropriately scaled research questions/problems, identifying and assessing source material and methodologies, and constructing well-supported arguments and evidence.
Sustainability + MBA Dual Degree (MSUS+MBA) The program builds strong knowledge in sustainability and business through integrated coursework. Students complete a capstone project and a professional placement addressing real world sustainability challenges for partner organizations. The curriculum prepares graduates to apply sustainability in business settings and to lead meaningful change in their organizations. Master of Sustainability + Master of Business Administration
Sustainability in Environmental Management (MSUSEM) Master of Sustainability in Environmental Management
CHOOSE ONE METHOD ELECTIVE FST520FEL Growing Sustainably Lab (1)
This course assists students in the preparation of thesis by reviewing research methods and design. Students review research papers focusing on identifying how specific methods were used to collect and analyze data in order to answer the paper’s research question. Guest researchers will present their work and explain their methods.
This course provides supervision and research guidance for the preparation of a quality thesis or capstone project proposal. All students are required to complete their proposals including committee sign-off to successfully pass the class. The course will be run in the seminar style with the program director or coordinator overseeing the class. The instructor will assure students to complete the MSUS final thesis/capstone proposal in accordance with the Thesis and Capstone manual with their identified committee chair.
As part of a team, first-year MSUS students work on a project or problem identified by the Falk School. Projects may be internal or external. Students play a supporting role learning good teamwork and drawing upon previous knowledge and courses to successfully complete or advance a project. Project outcomes are presented to the Falk School community and project sponsor. CHATHAM UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2026-2027 454
In a leadership role, second-year MSUS students lead a project. Projects may be internal or external. Students play a supporting role learning leadership and drawing upon previous knowledge and courses to successfully complete or advance and project. Project outcomes are presented to the Falk School community and project sponsor.
Course provides supervision and research guidance for the final project. Students will complete a final project independently or as part of a group to complete the MSUS degree requirements. The form of the final project is flexible and should be linked to the student’s self-defined sustainability challenge. Part one of two.
Course provides supervision and guidance for the final project to complete the MSUS degree requirements. Students will complete a final project as part of a group developed and managed within this class. With permission of the Program Director, students may complete the final project as an independent capstone or thesis. SUS698II Final Project II - Part Two (1) Course provides supervision and research guidance for the final project. Students will complete a final project independently or as part of a group to complete the MSUS degree requirements. The form of the final project is flexible and should be linked to the student’s self-defined sustainability challenge. Part two of two.
CHOOSE ONE METHOD ELECTIVE
SWK: SOCIAL WORK
Source: Chatham University's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 59
